The CMC Clutch Twin Tension Two Tension Lower has become a defining standard in modern rope rescue systems. By integrating the Clutch into a Twin Tension Rope System (TTRS), rescuers can achieve smoother control, balanced load distribution, and built-in redundancy. Whether lowering or raising, the Clutch ensures safe transitions, adaptability across rescue environments, and confidence […]
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Rappelling with the CLUTCH Device for Technical Rescue The CLUTCH, co-engineered by CMC and Harken Industrial, has rapidly become a trusted standard in rope rescue and tactical descent systems. Designed for precise control and operational versatility, the CLUTCH serves as a multi-role mechanical device capable of rappelling, belaying, lowering, and hauling—all in one compact form.
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Prusik Hitch Self Belay for Rappelling Safety The Prusik hitch self-belay is a simple and reliable method for providing backup protection during a rappel. This technique involves using a friction hitch, specifically the Prusik knot, to create a hands-free safety system that engages automatically if the rappeller loses control of their descent. The self-belay is
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Bottom Belay in Rappelling Operations Bottom belay—often referred to as a fireman’s belay—is one of the simplest and most effective safety backups used during rappelling. In this method, a team member positioned at the bottom of the rappel manages the rope and can apply tension to stop or slow the descent if the rappeller loses
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Good Rappel Technique A controlled rappel is one of the most fundamental—and revealing—skills in rope rescue. Whether you’re navigating a vertical cliff face, industrial structure, or urban high-rise, your technique reflects not just personal proficiency but your ability to manage risks for the entire team. Good rappel technique isn’t about speed or style. It’s about
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Negotiating a Difficult Start in Rappelling Starting a rappel from a clean ledge is one thing—starting from a rooftop, parapet, or overhanging cliff is another entirely. Difficult starts are where the margin for error narrows and technique matters most. Whether you’re stepping off a sharp edge, transitioning from a seated position, or straddling a parapet,
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Rappelling is more than just a way down—it’s a vital access and rescue technique that demands precision, planning, and practiced control. In rope rescue, deploying a rappel line isn’t about improvisation. It’s about deliberately building a path through vertical terrain with systems that protect the rescuer and ensure smooth operations. This guide breaks down the
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Twin Tension Skate Block in Tower Rescue When precision, control, and redundancy matter most, the twin tension skate block system stands out as one of the most refined vertical rescue techniques. This blog walks through a full scenario utilizing this method, focusing on streamlined rigging, dynamic lowering, and the critical importance of redundancy at height.
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The Lowering Piggyback Method is a rope rescue technique used to maintain continuous descent control while safely bypassing a knot in the main line. This method incorporates a secondary descent control system—known as the piggyback—and provides a controlled process for transferring loads when a knot prevents further lowering. Ideal for systems using the Clutch, MPD,
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Mechanical Advantage Piggyback Method for Rope Rescue Transitions – The Mechanical Advantage Piggyback Method is an advanced rope rescue technique used to safely and efficiently pass knots and transition loads during lowering or raising operations. By incorporating a self-contained mechanical advantage (MA) system—such as an AZTEK kit—teams can bypass rope knots without interrupting the primary
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